Lesley Stahl Quotes

Powerful Lesley Stahl for Daily Growth

About Lesley Stahl

Lesley Stahl is a renowned American journalist, best known for her work as a correspondent for CBS's 60 Minutes since 1991. Born on December 16, 1941, in Dinuba, California, Stahl grew up in New York City and attended the University of Miami, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English literature. Her career began at CBS News in 1972 as a writer for CBS Reports. She rose through the ranks, becoming a White House correspondent during the Carter administration and covering Capitol Hill for nearly a decade. Stahl's probing interview style and ability to extract significant information from high-profile interviewees have made her one of the most respected journalists in television news. One of her most notable interviews was with Ivanka Trump in 2016, where she asked questions that sparked controversy about the ethics of the Trump administration. Stahl's works on 60 Minutes have covered a wide range of topics, including politics, business, and social issues, earning numerous accolades, including multiple Emmy Awards. Stahl's work has been influenced by her desire to hold powerful figures accountable and to shed light on important issues. Her book, 'Becoming Grandma: The Joys and Science of the Newest Old Age,' published in 2015, reflects her personal journey into the world of grandparenting and her exploration of aging from a scientific perspective. In addition to her journalistic work, Stahl has been active in various charities, including the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund Alliance, where she serves as a board member. Despite her extensive career and numerous achievements, Stahl remains humble and committed to her craft, embodying the spirit of journalism as a public service.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"I don't think there is any question in my mind that I was a bit intimidated when I first started out on 60 Minutes."

Lesley Stahl acknowledges that she felt a degree of intimidation when she first began working for 60 Minutes, likely due to the prestige and high standards associated with the renowned television news program. This feeling is understandable as it's natural to feel overwhelmed or apprehensive when stepping into a new, challenging environment. However, Lesley Stahl eventually overcame this initial intimidation through her skills, dedication, and the support of her peers, ultimately making significant contributions to 60 Minutes and becoming an iconic figure in journalism.


"Courage isn't you going in and fighting. Courage is acknowledging danger and still moving forward."

Lesley Stahl's quote emphasizes that courage doesn't always mean physically confronting a dangerous situation; rather, it's about recognizing the potential risks involved, understanding them clearly, and choosing to proceed despite those risks. This interpretation highlights the importance of mental fortitude and decision-making in the face of adversity or uncertainty. It suggests that true bravery lies not only in taking action but also in acknowledging fear and moving forward anyway.


"In many ways, 60 Minutes is the greatest television news program ever created."

Lesley Stahl's quote suggests a high regard for the impact and influence that CBS News' "60 Minutes" has had on the landscape of television journalism since its inception. The statement implies that the show, known for its investigative reports, in-depth interviews, and ability to tackle complex issues, has raised the bar for quality, credibility, and innovation within the industry. In essence, Stahl is acknowledging "60 Minutes" as a pioneering force that has significantly shaped television news over the years.


"I think the most important thing a journalist can bring to bear on an interview is a mind that's open and a heart that's listening."

Lesley Stahl emphasizes that the essential qualities a journalist should possess in an interview are an open-minded perspective and a receptive, empathetic heart. This means being willing to entertain various viewpoints without prejudice while deeply engaging with the interviewee's words and emotions, fostering a productive and meaningful dialogue.


"When you're doing an interview like this, it's not just a matter of getting information out. It's also a matter of being able to connect with the person and understand their point of view."

Lesley Stahl emphasizes that an interview is more than just extracting information; it's about creating a connection and comprehending the interviewee's perspective. This quote highlights the importance of empathy, active listening, and emotional intelligence in journalism, acknowledging that understanding another person's point of view often leads to deeper insights and more compelling narratives.


I don't know of anybody's political bias at CBS News. We try very hard to get any opinion that we have out of our stories, and most of our stories are balanced.

- Lesley Stahl

News, Very, Stories, Bias

I thought administration was the running of the office. The Xerox machine. Paying bills.

- Lesley Stahl

Thought, Running, Xerox, Bills

I can't tell people what flag to fly.

- Lesley Stahl

Fly, People, Tell, Flag

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